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"Time of Day" is not blocking as expected

Updated this week

We're here to help

First off, we know this can be frustrating. We apologize for the inconvenience.

1) Reload Blocking

  • Tap "Help" on any screen in Roots

  • Tap the "Reload Blocking" button

  • This should fix most issues immediately

If you are having to reload constantly please contact us!

2) Do you have overlapping "Time of Day" blocks?

Overlapping "Time of Day" blocks should not cause an issue. However, we have seen a pattern related to this. If you are having issues, please try the following:

  • Edit "Time of Day" blocks so they don't overlap, or stop and start at the same time

  • Then, tap "Reload Blocking" in the "Help" modal

Here is an example:

  • Morning Block: 6:00am - 9:00am

  • Work Block: 9:01am - 5:00pm

3) Are apps being blocked in multiple places? (i.e. Challenges)

  • Double check to see if apps are being blocked in multiple places in Roots

  • If apps are being blocked by "Time Limit", "Time of Day", "All Day (Limited Unblocks)", or a "Challenge", you will need to unblock from each place

4) Check your phone settings

  • Turn off "Share Across Devices" in your iOS settings

  • Remove screen time permissions from other apps

  • Remove any limits or downtimes that you have set in other apps, including iOS "Screen Time"

  • Update to the latest version of Roots

  • Update to the latest iOS version

  • Turn off "Low Power Mode" for better performance

5) Force quit the Roots app

  • Force close Roots and open it again to reset the connection

  • Click here if you don't know how to do that

6) Restart your phone

  • Restart your phone

7) Reset "Screen Time" permissions

  • Go to "Settings > Screen Time"

  • Scroll down and find "Roots"

  • Remove access, then re-open the Roots app

  • Give access to screen time permissions when prompted

  • Note: Reconnecting may result in the loss of historical screen time data within the app.

8) Make a slight edit and re-save

  • Tap the edit icon on your "Time of Day" block

  • Make a slight edit to the time

  • Open the app selector, remove one, then save

  • Open the app selector, add it back, and save

Need more help? 


Get personal help from one of our founders here. We know this can be frustrating, and we appreciate your patience. We're happy to assist—and we’ll even reward you for your valuable time!


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